A well-chosen feature tree can completely change how a front yard looks and feels. It creates structure, adds height, softens the home’s façade and gives the garden an established, high-end appearance. Even a simple lawn and garden bed can look professionally designed when anchored by the right tree.
If you’re planning to upgrade your front yard, choosing a strong feature tree is one of the most impactful decisions you can make.
What makes a great front yard feature tree?
Before choosing a tree, consider:
Scale
The tree should suit the size of your yard and home. A tree that’s too large can overwhelm the space, while one that’s too small may get lost.
Canopy shape
Upright trees suit narrow front yards. Spreading canopies provide shade and presence in larger spaces.
Root behaviour
Important if planting near driveways, paths or foundations.
Maintenance
A good feature tree should hold its shape well and not require constant pruning.
Evergreen vs deciduous
Evergreen trees provide year-round greenery.
Deciduous trees offer seasonal change and winter sun.
Standout feature trees for Australian front yards
Here are some excellent feature trees that instantly lift street appeal and work well in a range of Australian climates.
Waterhousea floribunda (Weeping Lilly Pilly)
A graceful, evergreen feature tree with a soft weeping habit and lush foliage. It creates a welcoming, established look and works beautifully in modern and classic landscapes.
Height: 6–8m
Best for: Elegant, leafy structure near entryways
Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree)
A spectacular flowering tree that produces vivid red blooms in warmer months. It becomes a true statement piece in larger front yards.
Height: 8–12m
Best for: Large front yards needing strong visual impact
Buckinghamia celsissima (Ivory Curl Tree)
A stunning native feature tree with glossy foliage and large cream flower spikes. Perfect for subtropical and coastal climates.
Height: 6–8m
Best for: Tropical-style or native front gardens
Tristaniopsis laurina (Water Gum)
A refined evergreen tree with a neat canopy and smooth bark. It suits modern homes and performs well in urban settings.
Height: 6–8m
Best for: Structured, low-maintenance front yards
Lagerstroemia ‘Natchez’ (Crepe Myrtle hybrid)
A beautiful flowering tree with smooth bark, summer blooms and autumn colour. Provides strong seasonal interest.
Height: 5–7m
Best for: Feature planting and street appeal
Michelia figo (Port Wine Magnolia)
A compact evergreen tree with glossy foliage and fragrant flowers. Ideal for smaller front yards where space is limited.
Height: 3–5m
Best for: Smaller homes and courtyards
Hakea salicifolia
A hardy native tree with soft foliage and a relaxed natural form. Works well in coastal and low-maintenance landscapes.
Height: 5–8m
Best for: Informal native gardens
Acer buergerianum (Trident Maple)
A deciduous tree known for its beautiful autumn colour and attractive branching. Excellent for adding seasonal interest.
Height: 6–8m
Best for: Temperate climates and classic landscapes
Corymbia ficifolia (Flowering Gum – grafted forms)
A spectacular flowering tree available in red, pink and orange tones. Grafted varieties stay more compact and are ideal for front yards.
Height: 4–6m
Best for: Colourful statement planting
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana (Bangalow Palm)
A tall, elegant palm that instantly creates a resort-style look. Ideal for subtropical and coastal homes.
Height: 8–12m
Best for: Tropical and modern front yards
Feature trees for smaller front yards
If space is limited, consider:
-
Port Wine Magnolia
-
Dwarf flowering gum
-
Crepe Myrtle
-
Tristaniopsis
-
Small palms
-
Olive trees
-
Ornamental pears (upright forms)
These provide impact without overwhelming the space.
Placement tips for maximum impact
Near the entry path
Frames the home and creates a welcoming feel.
Offset in the lawn
Creates a strong focal point.
In a garden bed
Allows for underplanting with shrubs and groundcovers.
Near the driveway
Softens hard surfaces and adds shade.
Always allow room for the canopy to grow naturally.
How to get instant impact
-
Start with advanced plant sizes
-
Prepare soil well before planting
-
Mulch around the base
-
Water regularly during establishment
-
Use lighting to highlight the tree at night
A larger tree from the start makes a front yard feel established immediately.
Final thoughts
A feature tree is one of the simplest ways to elevate a front yard and increase street appeal. It adds structure, shade and a strong focal point that makes the whole garden feel intentional and complete.
Choosing a tree suited to your climate, space and home style will ensure it looks impressive for years to come. With the right selection and placement, a single tree can transform the entire look of your property.